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Sensys sensors being installed on Melbourne freeway

Sensys Networks has revealed that its wireless traffic sensors are being installed on the A$25m (US$23.7m) West Gate Freeway Managed Motorway Project, which is being jointly funded by the Federal and Victorian Governments, as part of Australia’s National Managed Motorways Program. The project will upgrade the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) along Melbourne’s West Gate Freeway between Williamstown Road and the M80 Ring Road. The patented Sensys Networks VDS240 wireless magnetic vehicle sensors will monitor traffic flows as part of the scheme’s new electronic freeway management system, which is intended to help manage congestion, improve reliability and safety, and create a ‘smarter road’. Visionstream Australia is the main contractor on the project, which is expected to be completed by mid-2014.

Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister, Anthony Albanese, said, once operational, the technology will give VicRoads the tools they need to better manage traffic flows and respond quickly to accidents and breakdowns. “For the 180,000 motorists and truck drivers who use this vital part of the city’s road network every day, the retrofitting of this technology will mean faster, safer and less frustrating driving conditions. Indeed, if applied nationwide, electronic freeway management systems have the potential to greatly reduce congestion and save Australian families and businesses more than A$500m (US$450m) a year.”

Victoria’s Roads Minister, Terry Mulder, said, “Our ultimate aim is to deliver safer, faster and less congested driving conditions along all of the city’s major routes. We will erect new signs to inform drivers which lanes they should use, as well as alert them to temporary speed limit changes. Providing drivers with information on speed limit changes early, helps reduce late decision-making and conflict on the road, making these roads even safer. We will also install closed circuit television and upgrade the supporting communication networks and central control systems.”